Definition

To pass someone or something by moving ahead of them after catching up.

Example

The car was able to overtake the slower vehicle on the highway.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how fast that car was going?

Yeah, it really tried to overtake us on the highway!

I thought we were going pretty fast ourselves.

I know, right? It must have been in a hurry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overtake → It is formed from "over-" (meaning over or above) and "take" (from Old English "tacan", meaning to seize or grasp). The word "overtake" means to seize or catch up with someone or something that is ahead.

Memory Tip

Think of going 'over' something to 'seize' it — that's why 'overtake' means to catch up with and pass.

Visually Confused Words